Ben Johns Teases Unexpected Announcement, Sends Pickleball World Into Frenzy
Ben Johns, widely regarded as the face of professional pickleball, has sent shockwaves through the sports world after teasing what he called an “unexpected announcement” on social media earlier today. The 25-year-old superstar, who has dominated the sport for years with multiple Triple Crowns and countless championship titles, offered no details — only a cryptic message that has left fans and analysts speculating wildly.
The Announcement That Wasn’t — Yet
At 10:15 a.m. EST, Johns posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account:
“Big announcement coming soon. This one’s different. Unexpected even for me. Stay tuned. 👀”
Within minutes, the post had gone viral within the pickleball community. Social media lit up with theories ranging from potential retirement, a major sponsorship shakeup, a move to another sport, or even the formation of a new league.
The timing of the tease adds intrigue — it comes just days before the PPA Tour’s highly anticipated Nationals in Dallas, where Johns is expected to compete in singles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles.
Speculation Swirls
Ben Johns has long been a trailblazer in pickleball, and any deviation from the norm is treated with high significance. Online forums and comment sections are flooded with theories. Some of the leading guesses include:
- Retirement or Sabbatical: Despite his youth, Johns has been playing at the highest level since his teens. Some believe he may be stepping back to pursue academic or entrepreneurial interests — he studied materials science at the University of Maryland and has shown interest in business ventures.
- Crossover Into Tennis or Padel: With the growing trend of pickleball stars dabbling in other racquet sports, some wonder if Johns might attempt a crossover — especially given his past success as a junior tennis player.
- Ownership or New Venture: There is also speculation that he could be launching a new business, perhaps a pickleball-related brand, academy, or even investing in a professional team or league.
- Health-Related Break: Although there’s been no public sign of injury or illness, fans are worried the announcement could relate to an undisclosed health concern.
- Media or Streaming Deal: Given Johns’ popularity and increasing presence on YouTube and other platforms, some speculate a move into content creation or a partnership with a major sports network.
Silence From Inner Circle
When reached for comment, the PPA Tour declined to elaborate on the nature of Johns’ announcement, stating only, “We support Ben in all of his endeavors and look forward to seeing him in Dallas.”
Johns’ brother and doubles partner, Collin Johns, remained tight-lipped as well. “Can’t say much right now,” he said in a brief message to reporters. “You’ll hear it from Ben when the time is right.”
A Defining Moment for Pickleball?
Whether this announcement marks a shift in Johns’ career or simply a new chapter, its impact is already being felt. As one Reddit user put it: “When Ben Johns breathes, pickleball listens. Whatever this is, it’s big.”
With pickleball continuing its meteoric rise in the U.S. and internationally — drawing celebrities, TV deals, and billionaire investors — anything involving its most recognizable face carries outsized weight.
For now, the pickleball world waits.
Johns promised more details “in the coming days,” and with the Nationals approaching, the anticipation is likely to build to a fever pitch. Whether the news is thrilling, sobering, or surprising, it’s clear that Ben Johns still knows how to command attention — on and off the court.
Leave a Reply